Private Pilotage of a Flight Simulator in Paris

Imagine sitting in the cockpit of an Airbus A320, the controls trembling slightly under your fingertips as you prepare for takeoff. That’s exactly what this private pilotage experience offers—without ever leaving Paris. Offered by AviaSim, this activity invites you to take the helm of a high-fidelity flight simulator, guided by a professional pilot instructor. It’s designed for anyone aged 10 and above, whether you’re a seasoned aviation geek or just looking for an unforgettable adventure in the skies.

What really makes this experience stand out is how accessible and engaging it is. You don’t need any prior flying experience—just a curiosity for flying—and you’ll get to live out a real pilot’s moment. Plus, the opportunity to earn a pilot diploma at the end adds a nice layer of achievement. However, it’s worth noting that the session is relatively short, at about 45 minutes, so if you’re craving a longer flying adventure, you might want to consider booking additional sessions.

This tour is ideal for families, aviation buffs, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. The combination of expert guidance and realistic simulation makes it a compelling choice. Still, it’s not a full-scale flying lesson—more of a taste of what it’s like to be an airline captain—so don’t expect to master the entire aircraft in just one go. But for a quick, fun, and educational thrill, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic simulation: The experience uses a high-quality Airbus A320 simulator that closely mimics real cockpit controls and visuals.
• Professional guidance: Accompanied by a pilot instructor, you’ll receive expert explanations, making the activity suitable for beginners and enthusiasts.
• Flexible for ages: Accessible from age 10, making it a great family activity or gift.
• Value for money: At around $115, you get roughly 35 minutes of flight time plus a pilot diploma, which many consider a worthwhile souvenir.
• Convenient location: Based in Paris with easy access via public transportation, and the experience is private, so only your group participates.
• Positive reviews: The experience boasts a 4.5-star rating from 61 reviews, with many guests highlighting the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

When you arrive at the AviaSim center in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, you’re greeted by friendly staff eager to guide you through what’s to come. The meeting point at 16 Rue Raymond Aron is easily accessible, with public transport nearby, which makes planning your day a breeze.

The Briefing (10 Minutes)

Your adventure begins with a quick briefing session. Expect to learn about the cockpit layout, controls, and safety procedures. This is where you’ll get a peek at the simulator’s impressive realism, which many reviewers praise. One guest mentioned that the cockpit environment is very representative, adding to the thrill of the experience.

The Flight (35 Minutes)

Once you’re comfortable, it’s time to take the pilot’s seat. The instructor will guide you through the process, explaining how to manage the engines, navigate, and execute takeoff procedures. You’ll start the engines, prepare for takeoff, and then, as the instructor hands over control, you become the captain.

Several reviewers have shared how friendly and accommodating the instructors are, often going beyond just guiding to actively engaging with the participants—like one guest who appreciated their “attentiveness and professionalism”.

During your flight, you can choose to make the aircraft do what you want—whether that’s a smooth takeoff, a scenic cruise, or a challenging approach. Some guests have even flown over famous landmarks or practiced specific procedures, which highlights the simulator’s versatility.

The Pilot Diploma and Post-Flight

At the end of your session, you’ll receive a pilot diploma—a memorable keepsake of your time in the cockpit. Many found this to be a fun bonus, adding legitimacy to the experience and making it feel more like a real adventure.

The Real Benefits of This Flight Simulator Experience

Authenticity and Realism

One of the standout features is the realistic visuals and controls. The simulator’s cockpit feels genuine, and the visuals are detailed enough to give you a real sense of altitude and direction. A reviewer noted flying over Mont Blanc and Monaco, which hints at the immersive capabilities of the simulator.

Expert Guidance

Guests repeatedly praise the professionalism of the instructors. One mentioned that their instructor, Ryan, was “super friendly, attentive, and a real captain.” The instructors don’t just sit back—they actively support, explain, and encourage, even helping those with no prior experience feel confident behind the controls.

Flexibility and Customization

The activity can be tailored to your preferences, whether you’re interested in practicing takeoff and landing, or just flying around for fun. Several guests appreciated the ability to fly the plane the way they wanted, and some even filmed or took photos during their flight, thanks to the accessibility of the setup.

Fun for All Ages

Although the activity is suitable from age 10, it’s also engaging for adult aviation enthusiasts. If you have kids who dream of flying or friends who love planes, this makes for a fantastic shared experience. Many reviews highlight how children and teenagers especially enjoyed the session, with some describing it as a “great gift”.

Value for Money

At approximately $115, the experience offers good value considering the simulation quality, guided instruction, and the pilot diploma. Many reviewers have expressed delight at how much they learned and enjoyed during the short session, making it a worthwhile splurge.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience is generally well-loved, a few reviews hint at some minor issues. A couple of guests experienced booking mishaps or delays, which suggests it’s wise to book well in advance—especially during peak times. The activity lasts about 45 minutes, which, while ideal for a quick thrill, might feel brief if you’re expecting a full pilot training session.

Also, snacks are not included, so plan to grab a bite either before or after your session. If you’re looking for a long, sustained flying lesson, this experience might feel a little short, but for a taste of piloting, it hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for aviation enthusiasts eager to get a behind-the-scenes feel for flying an Airbus A320. Families with kids aged 10 and older will find it a fun, educational activity that sparks curiosity. It’s also a great corporate or birthday gift for anyone interested in planes or looking for a memorable Parisian activity.

If you’re someone who enjoys interactive, hands-on experiences and appreciates professional guidance, this simulator flight will meet your expectations. However, those seeking a longer or more intensive pilot training might need to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up

This private pilotage experience in Paris offers an exciting glimpse into the world of commercial aviation. The realistic simulator, paired with knowledgeable instructors, makes it much more than just a novelty—it’s an educational and exhilarating activity that provides genuine insight into what it takes to pilot an Airbus A320.

The activity’s accessibility for ages 10 and up makes it flexible for families, while the professional guidance ensures even complete beginners feel comfortable at the controls. The inclusion of a pilot diploma adds a tangible memory of what was a surprisingly immersive experience.

While the session’s brevity might be a downside for those wanting a full pilot training or longer flying session, it’s ideal for a quick, memorable adventure. If you’re looking for a unique gift, a fun family outing, or simply want to see if flying is for you, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of wow moments.

The combination of realism, expert support, and accessibility makes this a highly recommended experience for anyone visiting Paris with a curiosity for flying or a desire to try something totally different. It’s a chance to feel like a real airline captain—if only for a short while.

FAQs

• How long is the flight simulation?
  The activity lasts approximately 35 minutes of flight time, plus a 10-minute briefing.

• Is this suitable for children?
  Yes, it’s accessible from age 10, making it a fun activity for families with kids interested in aviation.

• Do I need prior flying experience?
  Not at all. The activity is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, with guidance from a professional pilot instructor.

• Where does the activity take place?
  The meeting point is 16 Rue Raymond Aron in Paris, which is conveniently near public transportation.

• What’s included in the experience?
  You get to pilot the Airbus A320, and at the end, you receive a pilot diploma as a souvenir.

• Can I cancel or reschedule?
  Yes, the experience is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for a refund.

In sum, if you’re after a fun, interactive, and surprisingly authentic flying experience in Paris, this simulator tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of adventure to your trip, whether you’re a plane geek or just in search of an unforgettable story to tell.